Even the most dedicated fitness enthusiast encounters a setback from time to time. Rebound with these tips:

  • Be flexible. If injury or illness prevents your exercise of choice, don’t focus on what you can’t do — focus on what you can do. Depending on the situation, other activities may work while you recuperate. For example, you probably couldn’t run with a minor back or knee injury, but swimming may actually be beneficial.

  • Keep your eye on the prize. Setbacks are temporary; it’s just a matter of time before you’re back to your routine. To make sure you don’t get out of the habit, set aside the time you would normally work out and use it for other healthy activities such as meditating.

  • Modify your goals. If you were shooting for a certain fitness goal, make the necessary adjustments and give yourself more time to meet that milestone. If, when you’re able to return to your routine, you push yourself too hard and try to meet your original objective, you may become frustrated. Goals must be challenging but attainable; otherwise they can demotivate you.

With a little planning — and checking in with your healthcare provider — a setback won’t get you far off the fitness track.

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